BELLEVILLE – March 1, 2022 – In a rare move, the local police union is making an endorsement for mayor, throwing its support behind Mayor Michael Melham for four more years of service.

The endorsement, posted to the Belleville PBA’s official social media channels read: “Belleville PBA Local #28 is proud to announce our support for Incumbent Mayor Michael Melham in his re-election campaign for Mayor of the Township of Belleville.  Mayor Melham has time and time again shown his support for law enforcement and first responders through the Covid-19 Pandemic as well as the sweeping anti-police movement. He has shown his support by standing with Local #28 and our community.”

Melham is running for re-election on Tuesday, May 10 with his slate of candidates, Deputy Mayor Naomy DePeña and Councilman-at-large Tommy Graziano.

In receiving the endorsement, Melham said he was “extremely humbled, and absolutely thrilled, to have the support and official endorsement of the men and women of our fine Belleville Police Department.”

The endorsement is noteworthy because the Belleville PBA has not endorsed a candidate for local office in decades.

“That’s why Local 28 voluntarily stepping out with its official endorsement means so much, especially during these trying times,” Melham said. “This was not solicited, rather, it happened organically with the men and women of Local 28, knowing I’ve had their back, unconditionally for years. In return, they wanted to show me that they have my back in this upcoming May municipal election.”

The mayor added: “We seem to live in a world that’s upside down. Good is bad and bad is somehow good. These hard working men and women put their lives on the line, every single day, for us. Sadly, it has recently become all too popular to make them scapegoats, often by elected officials. Bureaucrats have been no better, creating legislation after legislating neutering law enforcement and perpetuating a culture of disrespect. This sickens to me.”

Melham expressed his appreciation to Police Chief Mark Minichini, as well as the PBA, including PBA President John Hood and PBA Vice President/State Delegate Steven Plumer.

“I sincerely thank you for your strong show of support and commitment to my re-election and to our collective vision of creating a #BetterBelleville for all Belleville residents,” Melham said. “Stay safe and stay strong.”